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Day 10

Abree Thornock

Topic: Our Jobs

Scripture Reference: Matthew 5:16

Devotional:

As believers, we are called to represent Jesus and His Kingdom wherever we go, including our jobs! Whether your job is in education, medicine, construction, or ministry—no matter what field of work you are in—you are called to be a representative of Jesus. From coworkers to customers, we are given opportunities every day to influence people. We are not simply meant to be affected by culture and communities, but we are meant to affect them and even transform them.

You are called to be a thermostat! A thermostat sets the temperature of the room. If it’s too cold, you turn up the heat. When we act like a thermostat, we establish the temperature of the atmosphere around us. However, if we are honest, it can be easy to operate more like a thermometer. A thermometer doesn’t set the temperature; it only reflects the temperature around it. Exposure to harsh bosses, demanding customers, and frustrating coworkers can take its toll over time. A little gossip here, an inappropriate joke there, and before you know it, you are reflecting the kingdom of darkness more than the Kingdom of God.

The way you resist becoming a thermometer is by moving from a passive observer to an active participant in advancing the Kingdom and transforming your workplace.

When Jesus thinks of you in your job, He says,

You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. (Matthew 5:14–16)

So, how do we be a light in our workplace? First, we can do this through our words. When we speak words of life, hope, and encouragement, we greatly influence everyone around us. It’s not just our words that influence, but also our deeds. Sometimes, the greatest way to influence our coworkers is not what we say, but what we do. When this proves to be challenging, remember what Colossians 3:23 says, “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” So, whether through word or deed, we do it to the glory of God, and that transforms those around us.

Finally, we let our light shine by taking time daily to pray! When we pray, it transforms our hearts, it changes atmospheres, and we give permission for God to move in and through us!

Let’s take some time and pray for our places of work today.

God, thank You for providing me with work. I ask that You would give the grace and wisdom my employer needs to lead. I pray for those who work with me. Bless their work and their families. Please meet their needs. I thank You for blessing my workplace and causing the work we do there to be successful. I ask for myself, that You would give me the strength to work wholeheartedly. May all I do be done for You and Your glory.